EP3260379A1 - Simulation of gravity and device for creating a force acting on an object - Google Patents

Abstract

A method according to the invention serves to simulate a gravitational force acting on an object (5) in space. It includes inducing a magnetic moment in the object by generating an external magnetic field in an environment of the object. A device (200, 300) according to the invention serves to generate a force acting on an object (5). The device comprises a magnet device for generating an external magnetic field in an environment of the object and thus for inducing a magnetic moment in the object. The magnet device has at least two elements (220, 230, 240, 310, 310 ', 320, 320') which are movable relative to each other for adjusting the external magnetic field.

Description

The invention relates to a method for simulating a gravitational force acting on an object in space and a device for generating force acting on an object.

The artificial generation of a contact-free force acting on an object is of interest for a variety of applications. In particular, the lack of gravitational force in space is problematic in a variety of operations. A simulation of gravity is currently only very limited or possible with great effort, in particular by generating a rotation and exploiting the resulting centrifugal force.

The object of the present invention is, in particular, to develop an alternative technique with which the gravitational force in space can be simulated.

Conversely, a force generated by such a technique, when applied to the earth, may preferably be counteracted by gravity. For example, an object can be levitated and / or accelerated without friction or at least with low friction.

For effecting such hovering on the earth, it is known, inter alia (see, eg MV Berry and AK Geim: "Flying frogs and levitrons" in Eur. J. Phys. 18 (1997), pages 307-313 ), Even in the case of non-ferromagnetic objects: Thus, especially for diamagnetic objects within corresponding magnetic fields, the gravitational force can be compensated and the objects are made to float. However, the devices conventionally used for this purpose are not very flexible in use, in particular with respect to a Range of different or even different objects that can be levitated.

It is therefore another object of the present invention to provide an improved device for effecting levitation of objects.

The objects are achieved by a method according to claim 1 and a device according to claim 5. Advantageous embodiments are disclosed in the subclaims, the figures and the description.

A method according to the invention serves to simulate a gravitational force acting on an object in space. The method comprises inducing a magnetic moment in the object by generating (in space) an external magnetic field in an environment of the object.

The object can be diamagnetic or paramagnetic. It is preferably in a designated position.

Thus, according to the invention, the force resulting from the induced magnetic moment is used to simulate gravity. Thereby, the object can also be easily fixed in the universe, for example, or moved in an intended direction, or the object, if it is a living being, can implement biological processes (e.g., growth) under earth-like conditions.

As can be shown, the magnetic moment m (x, y, z) induced in the object at a point (x, y, z) can be calculated from the generated magnetic field (or its magnetic flux density) B (x, y, z). , the magnetic susceptibility χ of the object whose volume V and the magnetic field constant (or the magnetic permeability of the vacuum) μ _{0 are} determined.

For example, for diamagnetic materials (which have a magnetic susceptibility χ <0) results with B (x, y, z): = | B (x, y, z) | in weightlessness the power $$\mathit{F}=\frac{\mathrm{\chi }\cdot \mathrm{V}}{{\mathrm{\mu }}_{\mathrm{0}}}\mathbf{B}\nabla \mathbf{B}\mathrm{,}$$

dabei ist z ein Punkt auf der Symmetrieachse des Magnetfeldes, B(z):= |B(0,0,z) | = B (0, 0, z) ist die Stärke des Magnetfelds inz, B'(z) die zugehörige Ableitung und V das Volumen des Objekts. Die Beschleunigung a bestimmt sich daraus zu $$a=\frac{\mathrm{\chi }}{\mathrm{\rho }{\mathrm{\mu }}_{\mathrm{0}}}B\left(z\right)\mathit{Bʹ}\left(z\right),$$

wobei ρ die Dichte des Objekts bezeichnet; für weitere Einzelheiten sei auf den oben genannten Artikel von M.V. Berry und A.K. Geim verwiesen.If the magnetic field is (at least) substantially homogeneous or rotationally symmetrical at least in a partial region, the force F is directed parallel to the axis of symmetry of the magnetic field. Given a suitably chosen coordinate system whose one axis (referred to herein as the z coordinate) runs along this symmetry axis, along this axis is the corresponding z component of F given by the equation $$\mathrm{F}\left(\mathrm{z}\right)=\frac{\mathrm{\chi }\cdot \mathrm{V}}{{\mathrm{\mu }}_{\mathrm{0}}}B\left(z\right)\mathit{B\; \text{'}}\left(z\right);$$

where z is a point on the symmetry axis of the magnetic field, B ( z ): = | B (0,0, z ) | = B (0, 0, z) is the strength of the magnetic field inz, B ' ( z ) the associated derivative and V the volume of the object. The acceleration a is determined from this $$a=\frac{\mathrm{\chi }}{\mathrm{\rho }{\mathrm{\mu }}_{\mathrm{0}}}B\left(z\right)\mathit{B\; \text{'}}\left(z\right).$$

where ρ denotes the density of the object; for further details refer to the above article by MV Berry and AK Geim.

According to an advantageous embodiment, a method according to the invention comprises setting a value or a range of values for a gravitational force to be simulated, acting on the (diamagnetic or non-diamagnetic) object (or setting a desired value or value range for an acceleration a ) . Preferably, the method further comprises determining at least one parameter value influencing the external magnetic field, with which the specified value or value range can be effected, and controlling the at least one parameter value.

Thus, a proposed or suitable for a specific case simulated gravity can be realized. In particular, a respectively suitable value or value range for the simulated acceleration due to gravity can be selected and implemented.

The at least one parameter value may define, for example, a position and / or a distance of elements in a magnet device that can be used for generating the external magnetic field, and / or - if a magnet device used comprises an electromagnet - a voltage to be applied.

B∇B bzw. $\frac{\mathrm{\chi }\cdot \mathrm{V}}{{\mathrm{\mu }}_{\mathrm{0}}}$

B(z)B'(z)) bzw. die sich daraus jeweils ergebende Beschleunigung den festgelegten Wert bzw. Wertebereich annimmt.The determination of the at least one parameter value preferably takes place object-specifically taking into account the volume V and / or material of the (respective) object (eg the density ρ of its material and / or its magnetic susceptibility χ ). The at least one parameter value preferably influences the magnetic field and thus the product B∇B or (in the case of a homogeneous or rotationally symmetrical magnetic field) the product B ( z ) B ' ( z ). It is advantageously determined so that the force (for example in the above formulas the product $\frac{\mathrm{\chi }\cdot \mathrm{V}}{{\mathrm{\mu }}_{\mathrm{0}}}$

B∇B or $\frac{\mathrm{\chi }\cdot \mathrm{V}}{{\mathrm{\mu }}_{\mathrm{0}}}$

B (z) B '(z)) or the acceleration resulting therefrom assumes the specified value or value range.

In particular, an expansion range within the external magnetic field can be determined, in which then a fixed minimum value (as a lower bound of a specified value range) of the simulated gravity can be realized: Thus, for example, with the above formula, a variable range for z can be set in which specified range of values is achieved.

By means of checking the at least one parameter value, it is ensured that the at least one parameter is set at a magnetic device used for generating the external magnetic field in such a way that the defined value or value range for the simulated gravitational force is achieved. The controlling can be Compare with at least one (eg for another object or another set value or value range) set parameter value include. If this deviates from the set value (at least one) set by the respective (at least one) specific parameter value, preferably a respective setting can be changed.

Thus, the method may allow simulating gravity of different strengths and / or for different (diamagnetic or non-diamagnetic) objects.

According to an advantageous embodiment of a method according to the invention, the external magnetic field is generated by means of a device according to the invention in accordance with an embodiment disclosed in this document.

A device according to the invention serves to generate force acting on an object (eg a simulated gravity of the object in space). The device comprises a magnetic device having at least two relatively movable elements and is adapted to generate an external (ie lying in an environment of the object) magnetic field and thus to induce a magnetic moment in the object; This moment determines the force acting on the object. By means of a suitable positioning of the elements relative to each other, the external magnetic field can preferably be manipulated, for example with regard to its strength and / or direction. In particular, by appropriate positioning, a course of the field lines describing the magnetic field can be influenced and / or at least one parameter value can be influenced as explained above. An embodiment is preferred in which the generated magnetic field is (at least) rotationally symmetrical or homogeneous at least in a partial region. Particularly advantageous is an embodiment in which the at least two elements are rotationally symmetrical about the same axis and / or arranged symmetrically to at least one plane.

beeinflusst werden. Physikalische Ergebnisse zeigen, dass dieses Produkt (neben objektspezifischen Eigenschaften wie Volumen, Abmessungen, Form, Dichte und magnetische Suszeptibilität des Objekts) die im jeweiligen Punkt (x,y,z) in einem magnetischen Zentrum der Magneteinrichtung erzeugte Kraft bzw. - bei einem rotationssymmetrischen Magnetfeld - die im Punkt z auf der Symmetrieachse erzeugte Kraft maßgeblich bestimmt; als "magnetisches Zentrum" wird dabei in dieser Schrift ein Bereich bezeichnet, in dem die Stärke des Magnetfelds maximal ist oder z.B. höchstens 15% oder höchstens 10%, bevorzugter höchstens 5% von ihrem Maximum abweicht. Bei Verwendung der Vorrichtung auf der Erde wird die Vorrichtung vorzugsweise so ausgerichtet, dass das magnetische Zentrum (bzw. eine Symmetrieachse) des generierten (vorzugsweise in mindestens einem Teilbereich rotationssymmetrischen bzw. homogenen) Magnetfeldes vertikal verläuft. Bei einer derartigen Verwendung auf der Erde, bei der das Objekt vorzugsweise diamagnetisch ist und die dann insbesondere ein Bewirken eines diamagnetischen Schwebens ermöglicht, müssen für eine Stabilität der erzeugten Kraft zudem die zweiten partiellen Ableitungen der magnetischen Flussdichte jeweils positiv sein; mit Hilfe einer geeigneten Positionierung der Elemente relativ zueinander kann vorzugsweise in einem geeigneten Bereich für z (im magnetischen Zentrum, bzw. - sofern vorhanden - entlang einer Symmetrieachse des Magnetfeldes) auch diese Eigenschaft des erzeugten äußeren Magnetfeldes erzielt werden.A device according to the invention thus makes it possible to effect a magnetic field which is suitable or defined in the respective case, thus of the magnetic moment induced in the respective object and thus of the force acting on the object. In particular, by means of the positioning of the elements (and possibly further parameters, such as a voltage to be applied if the magnet device comprises an electromagnet), the function of the magnetic flux density (x, y, z) ↦ B (x, y, z) and thus also the product defined above $$\mathbf{B}\left(\mathrm{x},\mathrm{y},\mathrm{z}\right)\nabla \mathbf{B}\left(\mathrm{x},\mathrm{y},\mathrm{z}\right)\mathrm{respectively}\mathrm{,}B\left(z\right)\mathit{B\; \text{'}}\left(z\right)$$

to be influenced. Physical results show that this product (in addition to object-specific properties such as volume, dimensions, shape, density and magnetic susceptibility of the object) in each point ( x, y, z ) in a magnetic center of the magnetic device generated force or - in a rotationally symmetric Magnetic field - which determines the force generated at the point z on the axis of symmetry; The term "magnetic center" in this document refers to a region in which the strength of the magnetic field is at its maximum or, for example, deviates from its maximum by at most 15% or at most 10%, more preferably at most 5%. When using the device on the ground, the device is preferably oriented so that the magnetic center (or an axis of symmetry) of the generated magnetic field (preferably rotationally symmetric or homogeneous in at least one subarea) extends vertically. For such use on the earth, where the object is preferably diamagnetic, and which then makes it possible, in particular, to effect a diamagnetic levitation, the second partial derivatives of the magnetic flux density must each be positive for stability of the generated force; by means of a suitable positioning of the elements relative to one another, it is also possible for this property of the generated external magnetic field to be achieved in a suitable range for z (in the magnetic center or, if present, along an axis of symmetry of the magnetic field.

Thus, a device according to the invention offers a flexible scope for generating a on a respective object acting force. The object may preferably be diamagnetic or paramagnetic.

The at least two (relatively movable) elements preferably comprise at least one magnet and / or at least one shielding element for deforming a magnetic field.

The at least two elements may, for example, comprise at least one permanent magnet; these are particularly easy to handle and particularly suitable in cases where a force to be generated can be relatively small, for example for objects in the field of microfluidics and / or when using the device for simulating gravity in space.

At least one of the relatively movable elements may be a current-carrying coil, so an electromagnet. Such magnets can be controlled very well.

The at least two elements may comprise at least one superconducting magnet; Such superconducting magnets are particularly suitable for generating particularly strong magnetic fields.

Alternatively or additionally, the at least two elements may comprise at least one (eg water-cooled) bitter magnet and / or at least one hybrid magnet; with them can be especially large values for | B (x, y, z) ∇ B (x, y, z) | or for | B ( z ) B '( z ) | Therefore, they are particularly suitable for larger objects and / or objects, which may include copper, silicon carbide, carbon or nitrogen oxide.

In one embodiment of a device according to the invention, this comprises at least one quadrupole magnet; This embodiment has the advantage that the profile of the magnetic field to be generated with it is particularly uniform and predictably focusing.

According to one embodiment, the at least two elements comprise at least one shielding element, at least one ferromagnetic inserting element and / or at least one graphite plate. Such elements have, in cooperation with one or more magnetic elements - or a large influence on a box profile and thus to the product B (x, y, z) ∇ B (x, y, z) - depending on the respective distance. B ( z ) B ' ( z ). Ferromagnetic insert elements may comprise, for example, an iron ring and / or an iron disk, which may preferably be arranged within a coil of an electromagnet and coaxially with the coil at a positive distance from each other; the distance may be, for example, in a range of 0.5 cm to 2 cm and preferably be variable. Thus, the value | B (x, y, z) ∇ B (x, yz) | | B ( z ) B ' ( z ) | can be considerably increased in the area between such insert elements with little effort.

The generation of the external magnetic field can be carried out in particular with two, three or more coils of respective electromagnets. The coils are preferably arranged coaxially and in the direction of a common axis relative to each other movable (in particular axially displaceable). At least one or at least two of the coils may preferably be superconducting. In the axial direction, the coils may have different extensions from each other. Preferred is an embodiment in which a first coil (as a first one of the elements) is arranged around a second coil (second of the elements). The first coil can have a greater or smaller extent in the axial direction than the second coil.

Advantageous is an embodiment in which the relatively movable elements comprise two coaxially arranged coils of electromagnets, a first of which is arranged around the second, and wherein the relatively movable elements also a third, with the other two also coaxially arranged coil comprise an electromagnet. The third coil is preferably arranged offset in the axial direction to the second coil and slidable in the axial direction. A through one of the coils (preferably the third coil) generated or generated magnetic field is advantageously directed against a generated or generated by the respective other coils (essentially rotationally symmetric) magnetic field opposite. This can be a great value | B ( z ) B '( z ) | be achieved. In particular, a spacing of the coils in the axial direction from one another can preferably be selected and set such that the value for | B ( z ) B '( z ) | and an advantageous stability range for a respective object and / or a defined value or value range of a force to be generated is achieved.

Suitable values for B (x, y, z) ∇ B (x, y, z) resp. for B ( z ) B '( z ) can preferably be selected depending on the application by a suitable positioning of the at least two elements.

An advantageous embodiment of a method according to the invention comprises changing a position of at least two relatively movable elements of a used magnetic device relative to each other (for example, changing a distance of the elements from each other). In particular, the object may be a first object, and the method may further comprise simulating a gravitational force acting on a second object other than the first object in space. A change in the position of the movable elements relative to each other can take place, for example, taking into account the material, the shape and / or at least one dimension of the second object. In particular, it may comprise reading out at least one value suitable for the second object for a distance of the elements from one another from a table or database, in which preferably several materials, shapes and / or dimensions are each associated with at least one suitable distance, and adjusting the distance according to the value read out.

According to a particular advantageous exemplary embodiment of a device according to the invention, which generates an essentially rotationally symmetrical magnetic field in at least one subregion, the at least two apply to at least one first positioning Elements relative to each other in at least a portion of a magnetic field that can be generated by the magnetic device (possibly with a suitably applied voltage) B ( z ) B ' ( z ) ≦ -100 T ² / m, more preferably B ( z ) B' ( z ) ≦ 450 T ² / m, more preferably B ( z ) B ' ( z ) ≤ - 1500 T ² / m.

In particular, when used on the earth, such values permit the effect of diamagnetic levitation also on biologicals, living tissues and fluids.

A wide range of values to be set for B ( z ) B '( z ) hereby means a device which can be used particularly flexibly with regard to the various objects. According to a specific exemplary advantageous embodiment of a device according to the invention, which generates a magnetic field which is substantially rotationally symmetrical in at least one subregion, at least one second positioning of the at least two elements relative to one another (and possibly for a second suitably applied voltage) in at least one subregion magnetic field generatable by the magnet device -250 T ² / m ≦ B ( z ) B '( z ), more preferably -100 T ² / m ≦ B ( z ) B' ( z ), even more preferably 0 ≦ B (z) B ' (z) applies. The second positioning may be different from the first or - in the case of a changed applied voltage - agree with it.

In particular, a device according to the invention may be embedded in a test track, which may comprise further stations, e.g. to carry out further experiments.

To this end, the apparatus may comprise a test chamber which may be located in the center of a magnetic field that can be generated by the magnetic device and into which the (e.g., diamagnetic) object may be conveyed manually or automatically (e.g., by a gas or liquid flow).

According to a preferred embodiment, a device according to the invention comprises at least one cooling device. Particularly advantageous is a variant which also has a device for controlling a temperature of the magnetic device and / or of its environment includes, with which the cooling device can be preferably controlled.

An inventive method analogously in an advantageous embodiment, a cooling, preferably also still controlling a temperature of the magnetic device and / or its environment, and preferably controlling the temperature.

Such an embodiment having a cooling device or cooling makes it possible to generate a particularly strong magnetic field or particularly large values for the product B ( z ) B ' ( z ), so that, for example, objects with small magnetic susceptibility (and / or larger Mass) can be levitated or accelerated in the sense of a simulated gravity in space to desired values. In addition, the cooling can prevent harmful effects of heat on the respective object or at least reduce.

An inventive spacecraft or a space station according to the invention comprises a device according to the invention in accordance with one of the embodiments disclosed in this document. Particularly advantageous is an embodiment in which the inventive device for generating force acting on a subject comprises a cooling device as mentioned above, wherein the cooling device preferably has a cold supply from an external environment of the spacecraft or the space station to the magnetic device. Thus, the cold of the universe can be efficiently used for cooling.

An inventive tank of a spacecraft comprises a device according to the invention according to one of the embodiments disclosed in this document for effecting a force acting on a (in particular diamagnetic) fuel contained in the tank; In the sense of the above designations, the fuel thus represents the object. Preferably, the magnetic device is aligned so that the said force acts in the direction of a tank outlet. The device or the magnetic device can thereby be arranged wholly or partly inside the tank space or outside thereof.

Analogously, according to an advantageous embodiment of a method according to the invention, the object is a fuel contained in a tank and the gravity is simulated in the direction of a tank outlet.

In the following preferred embodiments of the invention will be explained in more detail with reference to drawings. It is understood that individual elements and components can be combined differently than shown. Reference numerals for corresponding elements are used across figures and may not be rewritten for each figure.

Figur 1:

eine exemplarische Teststrecke mit einer Vorrichtung zum Durchführen eines erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens;

Figur 2:

eine erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung gemäß einer ersten exemplarischen Ausführungsform;

Figur 3:

eine erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung gemäß einer zweiten exemplarischen Ausführungsform; und

Figur 4a, 4b:

vereinfachte Ansichten zweier Ausführungsformen einer erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung.

They show schematically:

FIG. 1:

an exemplary test track with an apparatus for performing a method according to the invention;

FIG. 2:

a device according to the invention according to a first exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 3:

a device according to the invention according to a second exemplary embodiment; and

FIGS. 4a, 4b:

simplified views of two embodiments of a device according to the invention.

The FIG. 1 shows (simplified as a functional diagram) a section of a test track 10, which is adapted to be used in a spacecraft or a space station for performing experiments. The test section comprises schematically illustrated experimental stations 20, 20 ', and - between these experimental stations 20, 20' arranged - a device 100 for simulating gravity according to a method of the invention. The experimental stations 20, 20 'are connected via an object line 40 or 40' to the device 100 (as another station); through the respective object line, which is realized in the form of a tube in the example shown, can (for example with the aid of a gas and / or Liquid stream) transported an object and thus be forwarded from station to station, where it can be examined or treated.

The device 100 comprises a magnetic device 110, which in the example shown comprises a simple coil 120 as electromagnet; Alternatively or additionally, the device could comprise, for example, at least one further coil arranged coaxially with the coil shown, at least one ferromagnet and / or at least one quadrupole magnet. In particular, the device 100 could replace the coil 120 in the FIG. 2 shown magnetic device with the coils 220, 230 and 240 or in FIG. 3 shown magnetic device with the movable magnets 310, 310 'and graphite plates 320, 320' include.

In the magnetic center of the magnetic device 110 (here in the interior of the coil 120), a test chamber 130 is arranged, into and out of which leads to the object line 40, 40 '. In the interior of the test chamber 130, gravity can be simulated on an object in the test chamber with the aid of the magnet device.

The in the FIG. 1 The device 100 shown further comprises a shield 115 for electromagnetic radiation, which is arranged in an environment of the magnetic device 110 and shown schematically in the figure. This serves to prevent that the strong magnetic radiation of the magnetic device penetrates into other subsystems of the test track or a spacecraft or a space station in which the test track 10 can be arranged and influences these subsystems.

The coil 120 is connected via at least one cable 125 to a power source 142 and a control control device 144, which in the example shown together in a supply and control device 140 are included; Such a supply and control device 140 may in particular comprise a data memory in which comparison values may be stored, for example for regulating a temperature and / or for automatic adjustment of a voltage to be applied. If the test track 10 is arranged in a spacecraft or a space station, the power source 142 may be connected to its or its energy source (not shown). Preferably, the energy source is adjustable, in particular advantageously has a possibility for manual and / or automated adjustment of a supply voltage for the electromagnet 120. In embodiments where the magnet means includes a first member (not shown) movable relative to the solenoid in addition to the illustrated solenoid 120, the supply and control means 140 may preferably include a moving means for automatically or manually moving the members relative to each other include; Thus, in particular, the device 100 can be suitably adapted to desired conditions and / or respective objects with their properties.

About at least one other cable 145 is in the FIG. 1 shown supply and control device 140 is connected to an external temperature control device 152, which is outside a (schematically limited) outer wall 160, for example, in an external environment of a spacecraft or a space station is arranged and together with an internal temperature control device 154 part of a cooling device 150. The external temperature control device 152 is preferably configured to receive the temperature of the outside environment; Via temperature lines 156, the temperature can be conducted to the inner temperature control device 154 and from there via temperature lines 158 to the electromagnet 120, which can be cooled quickly and efficiently. The inner temperature control device 154 preferably comprises a measuring device for detecting the temperature of the electromagnet, and the respectively detected temperature is preferably transmitted to the control device 144, which according to an advantageous embodiment with the data thus obtained (eg after comparison with control data from a data memory) Cooling by the cooling device 150 controls.

In FIG. 2 an example of a device 200 according to the invention for generating a force acting on an object 5 is shown. The object 5 is arranged in the example shown within a test chamber 130, which analogous to in FIG. 1 shown example to object lines 40, 40 'are connected or can be. For example, when used in space, the force to be generated by the device can simulate gravity acting on the object, when used on the earth, the force of gravity can be counteracted and thus levitation of the object 5 can be realized; in this case, the device is preferably to be oriented such that the central axis A of the coaxial coils 220, 230, 240 (which are relatively movable elements of a magnet device) is vertical.

The coils 220, 230, 240 are preferably to be connected to or already connected to at least one energy source whose supply voltage is advantageously adjustable; preferred is an embodiment in which the respective supply voltage for the individual coils 220, 230, 240 is individually adjustable.

By means of the supply voltage to be applied, a current flow can preferably be set in the coil 240, which counteracts a current flow in the coils 220 and 230. In the cylindrical coils 220 and 230 (of which the coil 230 has a smaller axial extent than the coil 220, around which the coil 230 extends) can thus preferably a first external magnetic field are generated, which a second magnetic field with the in axial direction to the coils 220, 230 staggered, also cylindrically shaped coil 240 can be generated, is directed opposite. The external magnetic field resulting from the superposition of the first and second magnetic fields induces a magnetic moment in the object 5. From this magnetic moment results the mentioned force acting on the object.

Like in the FIG. 2 indicated by double arrows, the coil 240 is preferably relative to the coils 220, 230 in axial Direction movable; Alternatively or additionally, the coils 220, 230 arranged around one another can also be movable relative to one another.

Thus, the said superimposition of the magnetic fields can be manipulated and, in particular for the resulting external magnetic field, the course (and the derivative) of the function B (z) in the direction z along the central axis A can be changed; where B ( z ) is in each case the amount of the magnetic flux density of the resulting from the superpositions of the individual magnetic fields outer magnetic field.

As described above, so the force acting on the object 5 and a suitable stability range (in which the object 5 can preferably float when used on the ground) can be adjusted. According to a specific embodiment, an axial distance can be set between the coils 220 and 240 up to a diameter of the inner coil 220 or further.

The movement of the coils relative to one another may be possible manually and / or automatically; In particular, the device may include a moving means (not shown) (e.g., an electric motor).

In FIG. 3 By way of example, a further embodiment of a device 300 according to the invention for generating a force acting on an object 5 is shown. In the example shown, the object 5 is again arranged inside a test chamber 130, which is analogous to that in FIG FIG. 1 shown example to object lines 40, 40 'are connected or can be.

The device 300 comprises a magnetic device which comprises two permanent magnets 310, 310 'with facing surfaces. Between the facing surfaces are two graphite plates 320, 320 'are arranged, which also have mutually facing surfaces; between these surfaces is the test chamber 130. The graphite plates serve one targeted influencing of the (the object 5 surrounding and therefore "outer") magnetic field.

The mutually facing surfaces of the permanent magnets 310, 310 'and the graphite plates 320, 320' lie on parallel planes and are movable relative to one another by means of rails 315, 315 '. Thus, the distance between the permanent magnets 310 and 310 ', the distance between the graphite plates 320, 320' and the distances between permanent magnets and graphite plates can be changed; in the terminology used in this document are therefore in the in the FIG. 3 illustrated embodiment, the permanent magnets and the graphite plates, the relatively movable elements. Thus, the magnetic field and thus the product B ( z ) B '( z ) for the respective object (with its own properties) can be optimized. The movement of the elements relative to one another may be possible manually and / or automatically; In particular, the device may comprise a movement device (not shown) (eg an electric motor).

In alternative embodiments, a device according to the invention has only exactly one permanent magnet and / or exactly one graphite plate as relatively movable elements.

When used on the ground, the permanent magnets (n) and the graphite plate (s) are each preferably stacked (as shown) in a vertical direction.

A method according to the invention serves to simulate a gravitational force acting on an object 5 in space. It includes generating an external magnetic field in an environment of the object. This induces a magnetic moment in the object.

A device (200, 300) according to the invention serves to generate a force acting on an object 5. The device comprises a magnet device for generating an external magnetic field in an environment of the object and thus for inducing a magnetic moment in the object. The magnetic device has at least two Elements 220, 230, 240, 310, 310 ', 320, 320', which are movable relative to each other for adjusting the external magnetic field.

The FIGS. 4a and 4b show simplified views of two embodiments of a device according to the invention 400a or 400b: Each of these devices comprises two coaxially arranged in each other coils of electromagnets which rotate around a respective test chamber: In the in the FIG. 4a In the apparatus 400a shown, these test coils 130a, 220a, 230a as well as an outer wall of the test chamber 130a are formed substantially along the peripheral surface of each circular cylinder, whereas the corresponding coils 220b, 230b and the outer wall of the test chamber 130b are shown in FIG FIG. 4b shown embodiment 400b are formed substantially along the lateral surface of a respective circular cone. The respective common central axis (rotational symmetry axis) is in the FIGS. 4a, 4b not shown. The respectively arranged inside coil 220a or 220b has (with respect to this central axis) has a greater axial extent than the respective outer coil 230a and 230b.

In (again with respect to the central axis) are arranged offset in the axial direction in the embodiments shown the FIGS. 4a, 4b on each side a further coil 240 ', 240 ", whose distance from one another is adjustable with the aid of rails 215. At the axially outwardly facing side of each of the coils 240', 240" is a respective permanent magnet 330 ', 330th The permanent magnets 330 ', 330 "are also preferably movable relative to each other in the axial direction (not shown), their distance from each other (and thus limited by them, the coil and the test chamber chamber) is thus adjustable.

The coils 220a, 230a, 240 'and 240 "(or 220b, 230b, 240', 240") are preferably to be connected to or already connected to at least one (not shown) energy source whose supply voltage is advantageously adjustable; advantageous is an embodiment in which the respective supply voltage for the individual coils is individually adjustable.

By means of the supply voltage to be applied, a current flow can preferably be set in the coils 240 ', 240 ", which counteracts a current flow in the coils 220a and 230a (or 220b, 230b).

The (external) magnetic field resulting from the superimposition of the magnetic fields of the coils 220a, 230a, 240 'and 240 "(or 220b, 230b, 240', 240") and the permanent magnet induces a magnetic moment in the object 5. From this magnetic moment, the said force acting on the object 5 results. By means of an adjustment of the various distances and / or supply voltage (s), the force can preferably be suitably set up to match the object (for example, its material, its shape and / or its dimensions). When used on earth, the object 5 can be hovered in this way, for example, when used in space can be simulated by generating the force acting on the object 5 gravity (an adjustable strength).

reference numeral

5

object

10

test track

20, 20 '

experimental station

40, 40 '

Property management

100

Device for simulating gravity

110

magnetic device

115

shielding

120

Kitchen sink

125

electric wire

130, 130a, 130b

test chamber

140

Supply and control device

142

energy

144

Control monitoring device

145

electric wire

150

cooler

152

internal temperature control device

154

outer temperature control device

156, 158

temperature cables

160

outer wall

200, 300, 400a, 400b

Device for generating a force acting on an object

215

rails

220, 220a, 220b, 230, 230a, 230b, 240, 240 ', 240 "

Do the washing up

310, 310 '

permanent magnet

315, 315 '

rails

320, 320 '

graphite plate

330 ', 330 "

permanent magnet

A

central axis

Claims (11)

Method for simulating a gravitational force in space on an object (5)
marked by
inducing a magnetic moment in the object by generating an external magnetic field in an environment of the object. The method of claim 1, further comprising establishing a value or range of values for a simulated gravity acting on the diamagnetic object, determining at least one external magnetic field parameter suitable for effecting the predetermined value range, and controlling of the at least one parameter. Method according to one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the external magnetic field is generated by means of a device (100, 200, 300, 400a, 400b) comprising at least two elements (220, 220a, 220b, 230, 230a, 230b, 240, 240 ', 240 ", 310, 310', 320, 320 ', 330', 330") having magnetic means, wherein the at least two elements for manipulating the external magnetic field are movable relative to each other. The method of claim 3, comprising relatively changing a position of the at least two elements (220, 220a, 220b, 230, 230a, 230b, 240, 240 '240 ", 310, 310', 320, 330 ', 330") to each other, in particular changing a distance between the at least two elements. Apparatus (200, 300, 400a, 400b) for generating force acting on an object (5), the apparatus comprising magnet means for generating an external magnetic field and thereby inducing a magnetic moment in the object,
wherein the magnetic device comprises at least two elements (220, 220a, 220b, 230, 230a, 230b, 240, 240 ', 240 ", 310, 310', 320, 320 ', 330', 330") adapted to adjust the outer Magnetic field are relatively movable. The device of claim 5, wherein the at least two elements comprise: at least two or at least three coaxially arranged coils (220, 220a, 220b, 230, 230a, 230b, 240, 240 ', 240 ") of electromagnets; at least one superconducting coil; at least one permanent magnet (310, 310 ', 330', 330 "); at least one shielding element; at least one ferromagnetic insert element; at least one graphite plate (320, 320 '); and / or at least one water-cooled bitter magnet. Device according to one of claims 5 or 6, wherein the magnetic field can be generated by the magnetic field in at least one partial area substantially rotationally symmetric or homogeneous. Device according to claim 7,
wherein for at least a first positioning of the at least two elements (220, 220a, 220b, 230, 230a, 230b, 240, 240 ', 240 ", 310, 310', 320, 320 ', 330', 330") relative to each other in at least a portion of a magnetic device that can be generated from the magnetic field applies B (z) B '(z) ≤ - 150 T ² / m, more preferably B (z) B' (z) ≤ -450 T ² / m,
even more preferably B ( z ) B ' ( z ) ≦ -1500 T ² / m,
and / or wherein for at least a second positioning of the at least two elements (220, 220a, 220b, 230, 230a, 230b, 240, 240 ', 240 ", 310, 310', 320, 320 ', 330', 330") applies relative to each other in at least a portion of a magnetic field that can be generated by the magnetic device -250 T ² / m ≦ B ( z ) B '( z ), more preferably -100 T ² / m ≦ B ( z ) B' ( z ), even more preferably 0 ≦ B ( z ) B ' ( z );
in this case, along a central axis (A) of the magnetic field B ( z ) is the amount of the magnetic flux density in at point z, and B '(z) is the associated first derivative of B. Device according to one of claims 5 to 8, further comprising at least one cooling device (150). Spacecraft or space station with a device according to one of claims 5 to 9. Tank of a spacecraft, which comprises a magnetic device for carrying out a method according to one of claims 1 to 4, in particular a device (200, 300) according to one of claims 5 to 9 for producing a force acting on a fuel contained in the tank.

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